The Seelisberg Tunnel

The article discusses the Seelisberg Tunnel in Switzerland, an impressive roadway construction that spans the Swiss Alps. It's the longest Swiss road tunnel featuring two tubes, forming a vital part of the A2 motorway. Situated beneath Seelisberg mountain, this tunnel bridges the towns of Seelisberg and Morschach.

As an integral part of the A2 motorway, it is the longest Swiss road tunnel featuring two tubes. In this article, readers will learn more about the tunnel's location, how it benefits drivers, some of the technical specifications, applicable regulations, and the answers to other frequently asked questions.

 

Exploring The Seelisberg Tunnel

The Seelisberg Tunnel, a vital conduit in central Switzerland, passes beneath the rugged terrain of the Seelisberg mountain, connecting the towns of Seelisberg and Morschach. Nestled in the canton of Uri, it forms a pivotal section of the A4 motorway.

It facilitates efficient travel between Uri and Schwyz, offering travellers panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape en route to and from this 2.1-kilometre tunnel. This motorway tunnel is integral to the nation's toll system. Live news and updates on tunnel and weather conditions are available online.

Image (Map) to be created! Show the info about the tunnel as described above

Image File name: Map Seelisberg Tunnel

Seelisberg Tunnel - Toll Free

While use of the tunnel itself is free, all road users are obliged to purchase a Switzerland vignette. Possession of a vignette is a legal requirement to drive on the nation’s motorways.

Elevation and Length of the Seelisberg Tunnel

Here are some interesting and useful statistics about the tunnel:

Length 9 292 metres
Elevation 1 923 metres (ASL)
Number of Tubes 2
Number of Lanes 2 x 2
Height & Width 4.5 m x 7.5 m
*Typical Travel Time @ 100 km/h 5.5 minutes

*Travel time to traverse the tunnel depending on prevailing traffic and weather conditions.

Terms of Use & Restrictions

Drivers planning on using the tunnels should be aware of the following:

  • Drivers must hold a valid driver's licence for the class of vehicle being driven and obey the rules of the Swiss road network. Adhere to the applicable restrictions of the individual, the vehicle class, and the load being carried.
  • Speed limit - 100 km/h (62 mph).
  • Be aware of the inherent risks of driving in tunnels. Every vehicle should carry an emergency hazard triangle to deploy in the event of a breakdown or accident.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY:

  • Ambulance: 144
  • Police: 117
  • Firefighters: 118
  • Universal European emergency number: 112
  • Swiss traffic information service (TCS) - +41 800 140 140

You can request Roadside Assistance in Switzerland using the following numbers:

  • Emergency Call / Vehicle Breakdown Serivce: 140
  • TCS Touring Club Switzerland - Toll free number: 0800 808 114
  • TCS Touring Club Switzerland - International number: +41 58 8276316

Seelisberg Tunnel Current & Live Webcam

The tunnel is open 24/7, throughout the year. However, there may be intermittent closures when circumstances dictate. Before travelling, it is a good idea to check the traffic conditions on the Seelisberg Tunnel Webcam. You may also want to check the Seelisberg Tunnel weather before embarking on your journey.

Seedorf: A2/E35 Seelisbergtunnel Sud dir. Nord

Are there alternative routes to the Seelisberg Tunnel?

The Seelisberg Tunnel is essentially the only direct route south from Lucerne towards Andermatt. However, if you'd prefer to take in the scenery, you could head east on Route 2, until you join the A4. Thereafter, head south via Ingebohl before rejoining at the A2 just north of Altdorff. This route goes on the northern side of Lake Lucerne, while the tunnel passes along the south shore.

Seelisberg Tunnel FAQ:

It is Switzerland's the longest Swiss road tunnel featuring a double tube. Each tube has two lanes. Cross connections occur every 300 metres, serving as escape routes.
Four underground ventilation centres are featured. There are portals at Rütenen and Buel, and a middle station that manages air intake and exhaust.
A combination of drilling and blasting was used in construction work. Other specialised equipment for digging tunnel links was employed.
A combination of strict traffic regulations and safety bays. The bays situated at regular intervals on both the northbound and southbound passages. Accidents are rare.
It was made using a method differing from the typical use of concrete slabs.
It is the second-longest tunnel in the country, and the longest double-tube tunnel.
Two tubes carry a total of four lanes (2 x 2) in both directions.
As part of the A2 motorway, it connects Basel to Chiasso. It bypasses challenging mountains.
Unlike the Gotthard road tunnel which traverses the Alps completely north to south, it is positioned only on the north. With twin bores and split traffic, it is the longest of its kind.
There are escape tunnels every 300-metres and a sophisticated ventilation system to maintain air quality in the event of an emergency.

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